Brad Hood

The meeting covered several agenda items following the approval of the agenda and previous meeting minutes. Key discussions included a second reading and approval of changes to the Extracurricular Programs Policy. New business involved reviewing the Monthly Agenda Items, Policies Per Bylaws, the Library Review document, and the 26-27 Program of Studies, which included specific amendments such as adding "or honors" after Biology and modifications to the Math Lab description. The budget report reviewed the SBDM Budget Summary, Activities Budget, and expenditures for Title II and Title IV funds. The Principal’s Report outlined the EDGE 13 program, announced upcoming dates for a College Fair and Scheduling Nights, and recognized the maintenance staff.

The meeting covered several areas including the approval of the January agenda, a good news report detailing Christmas assistance, holiday parties, a Superintendent Award, the start of the playground renovation, positive feedback on elementary basketball, and elementary student placements in forensics competitions. Key discussions focused on School Improvement Planning, specifically regarding MTTS - Behavior. Under student achievement, amazing growth results from December MAP testing were shared, indicating over 55% student growth across all categories compared nationally. Updates were provided on the testing calendar, including the upcoming English efficiency testing for EL students. The budget report indicated no major changes or new funding requests. The session included a review of Title updates related to an upcoming audit, specifying allocations for Title I, Title II (covering staff professional development across various areas like UFLI, AI Literacy, and GT PD), and Title IV (including enrichment for the IDEA Lab 2.0 and EDGE challenge equipment).

The meeting included discussions on school improvement planning, specifically focusing on the MTTS behavior survey and soliciting teacher feedback to form future plans. A proposal for a new Lego Club was reviewed and unanimously approved, with a suggested starting fee of $25. The committee also reviewed MAP results and updated the testing/assessment calendar, noting state testing dates. In budget review, the rolling SBDM budget was examined, and projections for the 2026-2027 budget development were discussed. Under new business, the Principal reported on the tuition process and current enrollment activity.

The Beechwood Independent School District's Lau Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to ensure English Learner (EL) students fully participate in academic and extracurricular activities. Key priorities include English language development through timely identification, assessment, and effective language assistance; ensuring academic achievement by providing equal opportunities in all curricular and extracurricular activities and monitoring progress; and fostering cross-cultural understanding within the school community. The plan details procedures for enrollment, identification, placement, and exit from the EL program, supported by professional development for staff and ongoing monitoring to address academic deficits and ensure long-term success for all EL students.

The meeting addressed several agenda items, including approval of minor changes to the agenda itself. Old business involved reviewing and approving wording changes for the School Schedule Policy on its second reading. A first reading was held for the Extracurricular Programs Policy, focusing on referencing the student attendance policy. Under new business, discussions included the Advanced Coursework policy and offerings, and a review of the Writing Policy and Parent and Family Engagement Policy (both without recommended changes). The Council also approved the CSIP for 2025-2026 after reviewing the SBDM Budget Summary and Activities Budget. The Principal's Report included updates on construction projects for various sports facilities and relocation of the Joint Session with the Board.